3D ripples in a 2D layer.

Ripples and Layers in Ultrathin MoS2 Membranes.


Single-layer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a newly emerging two-dimensional semiconductor with a potentially wide range of applications in the fields of nanoelectronics and energy harvesting. The fact that it can be exfoliated down to single-layer thickness makes MoS2 interesting both for practical applications and for fundamental research, where the structure and crystalline order of ultrathin MoS2 will have a strong influence on electronic, mechanical, and other properties. Here, the group of Andras Kis (LANES - Laboratory of Nanoscale Electronics and Structures ) report on the transmission electron microscopy study of suspended single- and few-layer MoS2 membranes with thicknesses previously determined using both optical identification and atomic force microscopy. The scientists found that this material contains small ripples that can increase the electrical resistance and hope that by removing them they will be able to further improve the electronic properties. This finding will allow MoS2 transistors with higher performance to be produced in future.

Jacopo Brivio et al., Nano Lett., DOI: 10.1021/nl2022288 (2011)

Nature